Decorative gravel is a popular choice for residential and commercial landscapes. It looks clean, complements a wide range of design styles, and allows for good drainage. But while it may seem low-maintenance, contractors know the truth: without proper upkeep, gravel paths and driveways quickly lose their form and function.

Shifting gravel, erosion, and weed growth are common issues that frustrate clients and reflect poorly on the install. Fortunately, these problems are preventable. Here’s what every landscape contractor needs to know to maintain decorative gravel surfaces that stay in place and look great long-term.

1. Start with the Right Base

The most important maintenance tip starts at installation. If you’re called to repair or maintain an existing gravel surface, check the base first.

Gravel should be installed over a compacted sub-base. This typically consists of several inches of compacted crushed stone, with a layer of sand for leveling. This helps with drainage and creates a firm surface that resists movement. Skipping or rushing this step leads to uneven settling, potholes, and washouts that no amount of raking can fix.

Pro tip: Replenish and recompact the base periodically, especially in high-traffic areas or after heavy rains.

2. Use Effective Landscape Edging

Landscape edging is not optional if you want gravel to stay where you put it. It’s your best defense against lateral movement, spreading, and migration into lawn or garden areas.

Options include:

• Steel edging: clean lines, long-lasting, ideal for modern or formal designs.
• Aluminum edging: lighter and corrosion-resistant.
• Concrete curbing: durable and effective but more permanent.
• Plastic edging: low-cost, flexible, but less durable.

Make sure edging is installed deep enough (at least 3-4 inches) and anchored well. Poorly installed edging defeats its own purpose.

Pro tip: If gravel is spilling over the edges, it’s a sign the surface needs raking and leveling—or the edging needs reinforcement.

3. Prevent Erosion with Proper Pitching

Even a well-installed gravel path can fall victim to water erosion if drainage isn’t handled right. Pitch paths and driveways slightly (1-2%) to one side so water runs off instead of cutting through the middle.

In areas with steep slopes, install water bars, berms, or drainage channels to slow down water and direct it safely away.

Pro tip: Reapply and compact fresh gravel in eroded sections before the problem spreads.

4. Control Weed Growth Early and Often

Weeds will find their way through gravel if given the chance. Once established, they’re harder to remove and can weaken the base. Prevention is everything.

Steps to control weeds:

• Install a quality landscape fabric below the gravel during the initial install.
• To prevent weed growth before it starts, apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring.
• Rake and inspect gravel regularly to spot and remove early weed growth.

Pro tip: Don’t skimp on gravel depth. A surface layer of 2-3 inches discourages weed growth by blocking light and making it harder for roots to take hold.

5. Rake and Regrade Regularly

Traffic and time compact gravel and push it out of place. Routine raking keeps the surface level, redistributes displaced gravel, and restores curb appeal.

Set a maintenance schedule:

• Monthly raking for light-use paths
• Biweekly raking for driveways or high-traffic areas

For large surfaces, consider using a mechanical grader or a landscape rake attachment.

Pro tip: If you’re already raking, check for bare spots and touch them up with new gravel to maintain consistent depth.

6. Top Off Gravel Annually

Even with regular maintenance, gravel gets lost to foot traffic, wind, rain, and snowplows. Plan for an annual top-off to restore volume and keep the surface fresh.

Choose the same size and type of gravel used initially to maintain uniformity. If unsure, match the existing gravel before ordering bulk replacements.

Pro tip: Schedule top-offs in late spring or early summer to minimize disruption and ensure stable compaction during the drier months.

Maintenance is the Key to Curb Appeal

Decorative gravel is only as good as its upkeep. As a landscape contractor, your value isn’t just in the install—it’s in knowing how to keep these surfaces looking clean, tidy, and professional over time. By focusing on proper base prep, secure edging, good drainage, weed control, and regular upkeep, you can keep clients happy and gravel surfaces looking sharp year after year.

FSI Landscape Supply carries quality decorative gravel, sand, and durable landscape edging—everything you need to build and maintain clean, professional-grade paths and driveways. Contact us today for more information!